World of Writer Mom

Saturday, November 14, 2020

How do you INSPIRE others?

Inspiring others to make a difference

by: M.B.Varville-Rodriguez

It is important to recognize that what we say and how we say it can create a mood or vibe. The nuances of language are complex. Words contain power in their presentation. And it's not just the words that create energy. Your approach and how you care for others is infused into your messages. Daily interactions provide insights into how you feel, your intent, and what you find important in life. The way you choose to communicate is the result of many variables including:

LIFE EXPERIENCES

PERSONAL STRUGGLES & SURVIVALS

KNOWLEDGE ON VARIOUS TOPICS

SELF-AWARENESS OF STRENGTHS/CHALLENGES/TRIGGERS

UNDERSTANDING OF HUMAN DEVELOPMENT THROUGHOUT LIFE CYCLE

ABILITY TO ASSIMILATE INFORMATION AND APPLY IT TO SITUATIONS

COPING SKILLS/ABILITY TO EVALUATE INTERACTIONS WITH OTHERS

One way to enhance your ability to communicate and inspire others is to watch and learn from those who have practiced this skill and do it well. You have a wealth of resources available via social media and other outlets. Finding the ones that resonate with you may take a little time, but it is worth the search. Here are some of the places I have found inspiration.

Mikki Williams

I had the pleasure of attending a workshop presented by Mikki Williams several years ago during an AFAA certification conference in Frankfurt, Germany. Not only is she an expert story teller, she is also an incredible inspirational speaker. Mikki has a talent for grabbing her audience's attention and making them think about the possibilities available in life and in business. At the conference I attended, she also shared her creative choreography talents as a dancer. Our group of exercise/fitness instructors learned how to build fun cardio routines for our classes. But even more than that, we learned how important it is to recognize each person's unique story and incorporate that into our work as fitness instructors. It was a moment in my personal history that made a lasting impression. And isn't that what communication is about? We all hope that something we say or do will help others in their journey. Mikki shared that we cannot "motivate" others to do what we think they need to be doing. But we can "inspire" them to make choices and changes. Remembering this has helped me countless times and in many areas of my life. Years after I saw Mikki, she continues to offer insights via her web page. I recently decided to get recertified in group fitness after remembering how much I enjoyed teaching. I signed up for classes and just received my study materials. (After connecting with Mikki on LinkedIn, those memories of her workshop came flooding back.) So check out Mikki's site and find out all the amazing things she has to offer. You will find inspiration.

James and Susan Divine

The first person I met on my first day of high school was James Divine. We arrived at the door leading to the band room at the same time. (If I am remembering correctly.) I was very introverted and nervous about my first day of high school. His kind smile and greeting immediately put me at ease, and that day was the beginning of a lasting friendship. Throughout our four years in band, he was the big brother I needed, my ride home from band practices and games, and the person I trusted no matter what. I watched him grow in confidence and was happy for him when he fell in love with the woman he would one day marry. All that time, I never once suspected he held on to a dark secret that haunted him. I didn't find out until many years later when we ended up reconnecting. James is an accomplished musician, author, and inspirational speaker who has helped many individuals realize there is life beyond trauma. He is a teacher and advocate for those who need to find their voice. His most amazing accomplishments are being a husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. I know that one day I'll get my books published too, because James has written about how it can be done even when you are busy and going in a million directions. And because I know James confronted his trauma, I have been able to reassure others that they too can overcome theirs. Check out what he has done. You will find inspiration.

World of Writer Mom's Communication Tips

Three things that create roadblocks to communication:

1. Assumptions 2. Expectations 3. Generalizations

Thursday, October 15, 2020

Beyond your experiences...Making choices that affect more than your own agenda

Beyond your experiences...

Making choices that affect more than your own agenda

By: M.B.Varville-Rodriguez

Making decisions that coincide with your belief system may come naturally for some of today's voters. There are voters who will dig in deep and be unyielding in their commitment to a cause, a concern, or a law that supports their belief system. Others might consider their personal experiences, life decisions, and the experiences of those with whom they share similar values. There are other voters who will weigh the consequences of the votes they cast in a effort to consider the overall benefits versus risks to their communities. There are a few dangers that need to be addressed. When it comes to being a conscientious voter, it is important to consider the efficacy of laws that promote an "all or nothing" approach. It is no secret that some politicians and groups are promoting an agenda that is seen as a panacea for what is labeled as "this is what's wrong with society." That is a very dangerous place to set up camp.

Dangerous "Camps" for Voters

1. Generalizations - When you group every person/concern/ideology into one category and assume that you've covered your bases, you promote a concept that has less to do with the overall good and well-being of individuals versus your own ego. Stereotypes, labels, and comparisons with one-sided opinions create a divisive perspective, whereby camps are set up on opposing teams. When this happens, nothing gets accomplished, except more name-calling, labeling, judging, and "holier-than-thou" platitudes being whipped into a frenzy. Generalizations rarely sway voters. But they do promote a false sense of righteousness.

2. Assumptions - When voters take statements, comments, or observations out of context, there is a risk of misunderstandings. It's easy to cherry pick something that is seen or heard, and form an idea that conforms to our belief system. To comprehend the nuances of language and observations takes more than a knee-jerk reaction, and requires a ton of discernment. Fact checking is critical when determining whether or not something can be applied to your voting process. Here again, watch out for that ego boost that comes from assumptions main fuel...validation. Clear you head of that adrenaline rush. If you skip this step, then the assumptions, combined with generalizations, will be your undoing.

3. Righteous Indignation - It's hard to hear that your opinions or political points of view have been challenged. It takes a mature person to consider differing sides of an argument. Remaining calm and free of name-calling and labeling is a huge accomplishment for any voter. As soon as you write or speak in a bitter manner, show your temper, and demonstrate less than charitable behaviors in the name of religion, that is when you've already lost your fight. It is discouraging to see so many posts claiming "christian" values that resort to generalizations, assumptions, and righteous indignation with a hint of cruelty. I do not claim to be an expert in theology by any means, yet I am sure there is nothing in christianity to validate the level of contempt toward others that has been recently on display.

4. Expectations - When we place our hopes in a human or a human made agenda, there is always a risk of disappointment. Humans are prone to mistakes and failures. We are each human and none of us can claim perfection. Each person is (hopefully) a work in progress. Being "in progress" implies there is a dynamic flow of information, understanding, education, and ability to assimilate what is being provided to us. None of us reaches the same level of "dynamic flow" at the same time. This is both amazing and frustrating at the same time. It is not a simple process when this "dynamic flow" arrives during an election year. There will be differing views, experiences, and levels of acceptance with regard to each point that needs to be considered during our vote. While we may not agree with others, it is important for us to remember that each human represents the sum of their life experiences thus far. Yelling, name-calling, generalizing, and assuming will not change those things. What will matter is our ability to be compassionate, see beyond our limited life experiences, and contemplate what we can do to create improved systems for those who are marginalized, minimized, and discriminated against.

Finally, please remember that just because you haven't experienced a situation doesn't mean someone else hasn't struggled with it. Being human means we are responsible for our own behaviors and histories. It means we care about our communities and those who are experiencing hardships. It is not our job to assume someone's intent. And it is very important that we maintain the separation of church and state. Regardless of our belief systems, some decisions need to remain between the individual and their creator. You do not have a floor seat to their game of life. That has already been reserved...and you're not invited. Focus on your personal relationships, make them stronger, and let's all stop pointing out other people's flaws to avoid dealing with our own. Please vote.

Tuesday, September 15, 2020

Weidner exposes residents to increased risks during a pandemic

By: M.B.Varville-Rodriguez

Why schedule a major apartment renovation now?

Residents at Retreat at Austin Bluffs in Colorado Springs, Colorado continue to be exposed to contractors during a major renovation in the midst of a pandemic. Weidner has chosen to have all the windows/sliding glass doors replaced plus renovate the entire outside of each building. The office staff is not permitted to tell residents what protocol is being implemented to minimize risk factors, except, "They're wearing PPE." It is unclear whether the many contractors who go in and out of the apartments are asked the main COVID exposure questions or get temperatures taken.

Contractors do not consistently wear PPE. It is also concerning that other residents may not follow COVID risk reduction protocols, thus creating multiple exposure points for this apartment complex. The residents have not been advised of protocol in place to inform residents of positive COVID results and points of exposure. Residents have been told by management that they will not be reimbursed if exposed or if property is damaged.

Why is a major company such as Weidner intent on completing this type of project during a pandemic and thus exposing residents to health risks?

If you go to Weidner's corporate office website at https://www.weidner.com/home.aspx you will see their tag line as "Weidner Cares." Perhaps they need to ask residents how they feel about having their lives disrupted and their health placed at risk for a major, non-emergency, renovation. Some of the concerns include:

1. Our children are scheduled to participate in online schooling during the day when these renovations are taking place. The management has not addressed this concern or provided options for where the children are supposed to be during these invasive renovations.

2. Some residents are unable to move the furniture away from the areas to be renovated due to heavy lifting that is required. The management stated that residents will not be reimbursed for any costs related to moving furniture.

3. Management has stated that residents who might get sick during this time of increased exposure will not be reimbursed for medical expenses or time lost from work.

4. Management has not provided a document that states what protocol is being used by the contractors to minimize exposure. There is no stated protocol for tracking exposure or notifying residents of positive COVID tested workers.

5. Residents have observed improper or absent use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) per current CDC guidelines while contractors are on site.

6. There are NO visible hand washing/sanitizer stations on site.

Given that we are still in the midst of a pandemic, it is unclear who thought it would be a good idea to pursue this type of renovation project, thus exposing a large apartment complex filled with residents. Management reported trying to work with residents but are minimizing their concerns. "All the other residents didn't have a problem with this and were given 48 hours notice." Well, this writer is advocating for those who are too scared to speak up for themselves. If Weidner truly cares about their residents, they would not place them in this situation, and would empower their managers to provide better alternatives.

Here's the most important thing about this renovation. It is NOT an emergency. There is no risk to anyone's health or loss of property if this renovation is postponed. This huge scale window replacement/building renovation project can wait. If Weidner really cares.

The US department of Labor has guidelines for this type of situation.

https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/covid-19/in-home-repair.html

Our children matter. Renovations can wait!

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